My Way on Channel 9 – In a heartwarming special episode, My Way celebrates all aspects of McHappy Day this Sunday at 5.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.
From McDonald’s licensees to patients, to volunteers and success stories, this week’s episode is inspirational as we discover how much McHappy Day truly does make a difference for the Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Ben Atkins was born to be a licensee. Growing up working in his father’s McDonald’s restaurant ultimately brought him back to the business as a manager. After being taken through Herston House as a young father, Ben connected with Ronald McDonald House Charities. As McHappy Day rolls around each year, he’s determined to increase the fundraising figure. Ben is passionate about Aussies helping each other when they need it most, and with a fun costume or two combined with determination, McHappy Day at his restaurant is a day to look forward to.
Courageous and resilient Mackealie Twidale has endured a lot more than most at the age of 19. She was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia at six and spent most of her early life in and out of hospital receiving treatment, missing out on a lot of school and childhood activities. Support from Ronald McDonald House Charities for Mackealie and her family has made all the difference.
After her family in Toronto had a great experience with Ronald McDonald House over 18 years, Nicole Grant volunteered her support when she walked past Herston House in Australia.
Looking to explore the world, Nicole saw an ad for a sailing boat and fell in love with a skipper. Now settled in Brisbane, she works as a remedial massage therapist and has donated her time and skills to families in need for 15 years. Nicole and her family live on a houseboat on the Brisbane River and she can’t imagine life any other way.
Samson McBride’s life changed forever when he was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma as a child. Through chemotherapy and surgery, little Samson was able to beat the cancer, but he wasn’t out of the woods. The after effects of the treatment left him with permanent hearing loss and requiring speech therapy. But Samson overcame these obstacles, and after applying for the Charlie Bell Scholarship he received cash support to study medicine in Cairns, where he’s thriving.
Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland CEO, Emma Thompson, said:
“McHappy Day is proof of the incredible impact when a community rallies together. From folks like Ben embodying true generosity to the resilience of individuals like Mackealie and Samson, and the selflessness of volunteers like Nicole, McHappy Day is a celebration of diverse contributions, all in support of seriously ill or injured children and their families.
“These stories of courage and generosity told on this special episode of My Way capture what McHappy Day stands for and act as a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference.”
For a glimpse into the different ways Ronald McDonald House Charities help those in need, watch My Way this Sunday for a McHappy Day special at 5.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.
MCHAPPY DAY – SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18 – DONATE HERE
My Way on Channel 9 Brisbane and nationally on 9Now – Sunday 12 November, 2023 at 5.30pm.
Other TV Central Nine content HERE
My Way on Channel 9
